Pfizer Bets on Monthly Obesity Shot After Promising Trial Data

Pfizer has reasserted its position in the competitive obesity drug market with encouraging results from a mid-stage trial. The company released data this week for its experimental injection, PF′3944, showing patients lost up to 12.3% of their body weight after 28 weeks. The treatment begins with weekly doses before transitioning to a once-monthly regimen, a key differentiator from the dominant weekly injections currently on the market.

In an interview, CEO Albert Bourla described the monthly product's profile as "very competitive" and said the company plans to use a higher dose in upcoming Phase 3 trials, which could push weight loss closer to 16%. Pfizer aims to start ten late-stage studies with the goal of securing regulatory approval by 2028.

A central part of the strategy involves convenience for patients. Dr. Jim List, Pfizer's chief internal medicine officer, noted the option for a monthly maintenance dose could appeal to those who struggle with weekly schedules, particularly people who travel. The company also plans to study the injection as a switch option for patients already on existing weekly GLP-1 drugs.

Beyond PF′3944, Pfizer is developing a combination therapy that pairs it with a drug targeting a gut hormone called amylin. Early data suggests the combination could drive greater weight loss. Both are engineered as "ultra-long-acting" treatments. The company even teased a future candidate dosed once every three months.

Full data from the Phase 2 trial will be presented at a medical conference in June. For Pfizer, the latest results mark a significant step forward after previous setbacks in its pursuit of the lucrative obesity treatment sector.

Source: CNBC